Islamabad:
Pakistan will continue to seek a strategic association with China, dismissing the perception that his close ties with the United States can come at the expense of Beijing.
Two statements on Friday, one from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the other of the ISPR, delivered a clear message that Pakistan’s relationship with China was “unique” and both parties would support independently of the changing strategic dynamics.
From the unprecedented restart in the relationship between Pakistan and the United States, there have been murmurs and skeptics that fear that Washington’s closeness can persuade Islamabad to maintain distance from China.
“I will not agree with this perception,” the Foreign Ministry spokesman Shafqat Ali Khan responded emphatically. “China is a very close friend and iron brother. We enjoy a strategic association distributed for decades. It is a unique relationship between two friendly neighboring countries and has nothing to do with what kind of relations we follow with other countries.”
“Pakistan-China’s relations are based on the principles of International Law and UN Letter. Our relations are still robust and two parts are working to maintain the positive impulse,” he added.
Previously, ISPR said that a Ceremony was held at the GHQ to commemorate the 98th anniversary of the Foundation of the Popular Liberation Army (PLA) of China.
The Chinese ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong was the main guest, while the greatest general Wang Zhong, deputy defense, officials of the Chinese embassy and senior military officers of the Tri-Services of Pakistan attended.
Field Marshal Syed also Munir, head of the Army staff, extended a warm welcome to Chinese guests and congratulated the EPL on its 98th founding anniversary. He praised the fundamental role of the PLA in the defense, security and construction of the Nation of China.
The COA underlined the strength and strategic importance of Pakistan-China’s relations, emphasizing that the link between the two nations is unique, proven in time and exceptionally resistant in the midst of evolving regional and global challenges.
The field marshal stressed that the strategic relationship of Pakistan-China exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support and shared commitment. He stressed that despite changing strategic dynamics, friendship between the two nations has remained firm and unwavering.
Concluding his speech, Field Marshal Syed also reaffirmed that Pakistan’s army and Pla are true brothers in arms. He stressed that his lasting association will continue to play a fundamental role in promoting regional stability and safeguard shared strategic interests.
When heading to the meeting, the Chinese ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude to the COA to organize the event that commemorates the 98th anniversary of the PL. He recognized the firm role of Pakistan’s armed forces in the fight against terrorism and reaffirmed China’s unwavering support and commitment to his strategic association with Pakistan.
